Gene Wilder Star of ‘Willy Wonka and the Charlie Factory’ Dies at 83

According to BNO News, the iconic actor Jerome Silberman, widely known by his professional name, Gene Wilder, has died at the age of 83, on Aug. 28, 2016. He died in Standford, Connecticut, of complications due to his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Wilder’s family confirmed his death on Aug. 29, 2016.

The actor known for his prolific funny movies was born in 1933. According to Entertainment Weekly, the actor, even as a young child, tried to make his sick mother laugh, in hopes that laughter would prevent her impending death. Wilder’s third wife, Gilda Radner, became sick and died unexpectantly of cancer in 1989.

Wilder is known for his role in the legendary film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” released in 1971. He is also known for acting alongside infamous Richard Pryor in films like the 1976 movie “Silver Streak,” or in 1989, “See No Evil, Hear No Evil.”

The actor has also written and directed some of his own films which include “The Woman in Red,” in 1984. Wilder co-wrote and directed “Blazing Saddles” and “Young Frankenstein,” with Mel Brooks; released in 1974. The pair received an Academy Award nomination for their collaborative works, for Best Adapted Screenplay.